A US-based online PR website recently asked communication professionals to give their advice to new PR graduates. Here’s a summary of what some people had to say- worth noting if you’re starting out.

• Get intimate with social and new media but don’t make it your only skill set.
• Create brand “YOU” by using the very knowledge and tools you learned in college and especially what you learned during your internship.
• Don’t just say you know how, show you know.
• Listen more than you speak. People around you are a wealth of knowledge; be a sponge and soak up as much as you can.
• Carry a notebook and take lots of notes at work. You’ll never be able to remember everything you’re told.
• While social media is critical in today’s world, don’t underestimate the power of a well-written news release.
• Never neglect the strength of networking. Computers are great, but there are plenty of instances where face-to-face communication is better.
• Learn the basics of how to sell. If you can sell your potential, you’ll get a job quicker. If you can sell your ideas, you’ll have a better career path than most. And, if you can sell your services, you’ll never be at the whim of an unfair employer or a job market that’s down for everyone else.
• If you don’t get an entry-level position right away, don’t be above taking an Internship. It will definitely pay off in the long run.

Back in February we published some interview tips which may also help those starting a career in PR.

As a graduate yourself, or someone already working in PR or the media, do you have any tips to add to the above?